Coyotes acquire Galchenyuk from Canadiens for Domi

The Arizona Coyotes have traded winger Max Domi to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for centre Alex Galchenyuk. 

Galchenyuk was the No.3 overall pick in 2012 but has disappointed in recent years after breaking out with 30 goals and 26 assists (56 points) in 2015-16. Galchenyuk has had a tough time adjusting to playing centre, but the Coyotes plan on using the 24-year-old down the middle. Galchenyuk has two-years left on his current deal with a $4.9 million cap-hit. Galchenyuk will likely slide in behind Derek Stepan to centre the Coyotes’ second line. 

Domi was set to become a restricted free-agent on July 1st, but the Canadiens have signed him to a two-year contract worth $6.3 million ($3.15M AAV). Domi was the No.12 overall pick in the 2013 draft but has not been able to best the 52 points (18G / 34A) that he posted in his rookie campaign. 

Like his father Tie Domi, Max brings a lot of hard work and intangibles, but unlike his dad he brings a lot of offence and creativity as well. Domi figures to skate in the Canadiens’ top-6, presumably taking Galchenyuk’s spot on the left-wing. 

Based on Corsica’s player ratings, Galchenyuk grades out a little better than Domi. Galchenyuk is the No.40 ranked centre with a 75.65 rating—Domi comes in at 73.66.